Anticipation is growing as Nebraska’s Governor’s Summit in Kearney will feature a keynote speech by a well-known figure in the state’s sports community, Fred Hoiberg, the head coach of the Nebraska men’s basketball team.
The announcement was made by Governor Jim Pillen’s office on Friday, confirming that Hoiberg will address the summit attendees on Tuesday, September 29. Governor Pillen expressed high praise for Hoiberg, stating, “Coach Hoiberg is a competitor, winner, and high-character leader,” and highlighted the remarkable achievement of leading the Huskers to the Sweet 16 last season, a feat that significantly rallied the Big Red Nation. He added, “I look forward to hearing his leadership insights at the Summit!”
Hoiberg, now preparing for his eighth season with Nebraska, has set a new benchmark for the basketball program. In the past three years alone, his leadership has seen the team secure 72 victories, marking the highest win total over three consecutive seasons in their history. This period of success includes Nebraska’s first-ever NCAA Sweet 16 appearance in 2026. Hoiberg’s exceptional contributions to the sport were recognized when he was named the men’s college basketball National Coach of the Year by the Associated Press in 2026.
Adding to the summit’s lineup, former U.S. Senator Ben Sasse will also deliver a keynote speech. Sasse, who represented Nebraska in the Senate from 2015 until 2023, has been publicly battling stage four pancreatic cancer since his diagnosis in December. Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to speak, he noted his eagerness to engage with emerging leaders in Nebraska.
Sasse’s career extends beyond politics; he notably served as the president of Midland University from 2009 to 2014, bringing a wealth of experience and insight to the event. Having grown up in Fremont, Sasse’s connection to the state remains strong.
